New York: Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua met US Under Secretary of State Tom Shannon earlier today in New York. Ms. Janjua arrived in New York last night to attend the 72nd UNGA session.

Discussions between Foreign Secretary Janjua and Under Secretary Shannon were held in a frank and cordial manner.

The Foreign Secretary conveyed Pakistan's viewpoint on the new strategy and emphasized that peace in Afghanistan is a high priority for Pakistan. She stressed that intra-Afghan dialogue is vital for bringing lasting peace to the country and the region. Pakistan would continue to play a facilitating role for a peaceful Afghanistan.

On Pakistan-US relations, the Foreign Secretary said that Pakistan had always considered relations with the US as one of its most important relationships. There was a desire on Pakistan's part to build this relationship further to the mutual benefit of both countries based on mutual trust and respect. Recent statements by the US had evoked strong public reaction in Pakistan. However, both countries could work together to attain common objectives such as defeating Daesh in Afghanistan and the region.
Both sides agreed to remain engaged at all levels in the coming days.

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Pakistan's Ambassador to the US also attended the meeting.